Carraway Park at the Riverwalk

All-Inclusive Playground

Tucked along the West Columbia riverfront, Carraway Park at the Riverwalk is an inclusive playground where kids of all abilities can let loose and have fun. The park sits conveniently near one of the entrances to the West Columbia Riverwalk, making it easy to combine your playground visit with a scenic stroll along the water.

This thoughtfully designed space features an impressive array of play equipment that caters to different needs and abilities. You can find swings (including ones specially designed for children with special needs), exhilarating zip lines, a challenging jungle gym, spinning merry-go-rounds, and a climbing wall that beckons adventurous little ones.

Play Areas

The littlest visitors have their own dedicated space with toddler-friendly equipment, creating a safe haven where they can explore without being overwhelmed by bigger kids. Meanwhile, older children can enjoy age-appropriate challenges in their own section of the playground.

One thing that really sets Carraway Park apart is its rubber foundation. Beyond just looking nice, this surface is a game-changer for children with allergies who might react to grass, rubber mulch, or wood chips found at other playgrounds. The smooth, cushioned surface also reduces injuries and makes the park much more accessible for kids and adults with mobility challenges.

Parents can breathe a little easier knowing the playground is fully enclosed with a single entrance/exit gate. It's a simple feature that makes a world of difference when you're trying to keep track of energetic kids determined to explore every corner of the park.

Amenities

When nature calls, you'll appreciate the clean, ADA-accessible family restrooms that accommodate children with special needs. For snack time or lunch breaks, the large covered picnic shelter with eight tables offers a shady retreat (just remember, it's first-come, first-served, so you might want to claim your spot early on busy days).

Across the park, you can find benches perfectly positioned for keeping an eye on your little ones while giving your feet a break. And staying hydrated is easy with water fountains and a water bottle filling station conveniently available.

Location and Access

You'll come across Carraway Park near Hudson Street in West Columbia, just across from the Riverwalk. Fair warning: the parking lot isn't huge and tends to fill up when the park is busy. If you can't snag a spot, don't worry - the Court Street Parking Garage nearby offers additional parking options.

What's nice about the location is that you're just a short walk from local restaurants, shops, and the Art Park, making it easy to turn your playground visit into a full day of family fun. Just keep in mind that while the playground equipment is fantastic, it sits in direct sunlight and can get pretty hot during summer months - morning or evening visits might be more comfortable during the heat of summer.

Unique Features

It's the little details that often create the most delight. Kids love discovering the pennies embedded in railings and spotting fossils on rocks around the park - like tiny treasure hunts built into the play experience. Many Columbia locals consider Carraway Park one of the best playgrounds in the area, particularly if you have young children or family members with special needs.